COMMUNITY leaders have hit out at ‘mindless vandals’ who spread dog dirt over a children’s play area.

Buckley councillor Mike Peers said he was contacted by a concerned resident on Saturday after offenders set fire to a dog bin and litter bin in the town’s Higher Common play area and then spread dog excrement on the slide

Cllr Dennis Hutchinson said it was not the first act of vandalism in the area – but it was definitely the worst.

He said: “This goes beyond the pale. It is a very serious matter.

“It is an absolute disgrace and whoever did it really ought to be thoroughly ashamed of themselves.”

He added: “My wife takes our grandchildren to this play area and was disgusted to see it like this.”

Cllr Peers said: “This is complete vandalism and arson and it is clearly unacceptable.

“The play area had more than £80,000 spent on it last year and when funds are tight it’s completely despicable that someone could do this.”

He added: “I would urge anyone who sees anything suspicious there to contact the police.”

Flintshire County Council closed the play area over the weekend to carry out repair work and it was reopened on Monday evening.

A police spokesman said a 19-year-old male had been issued with an £80 fixed penalty notice following the incident.

He added: “As the nights get lighter officers will be increasing patrols in public areas such as parks and will be working with the council and other agencies as part of the community safety strategy.”

Anyone who sees anything suspicious in the area should contact North Wales Police on 101.